Crumpled but redeemable

Would you take the time to stoop and rescue a crumpled, filthy piece of paper from the sidewalk on your journey to an important appointment? You probably would if you recognized Ben Franklin’s face peering through the dirt. That little…

Waiting for Wisdom to conquer us

It’s easy to believe that Hollywood detests anything to do with religion, but it’s hard not to notice their tendency to imitate scripture by using parables to tell the truth about humanity.  A new movie, “Arrival,” is a good example.…

Hiding in shade without shelter

English Mountaineer George Mallory made history not only for his attempts to climb Mt. Everest, but for his three-word answer to the question of why he kept trying. “Because it’s there.” In Mallory’s view, this mountain’s very existence gave his…

Filling our hole in the universe

We’ve all had those days where life felt like a big cosmic game show. On those days when the world throws its toughest puzzles at you it can be hard just figuring out the rules or your role in the…

Turning the Bully Pulpit into Stubble

Welcome to the end of the world. How does it feel after these few days into the post-election Armageddon many Chicken Littles expected? Probably the same as the week before Election Day. No matter who wins any elected office, the…

Fear that inspires the utmost courage

Some of the greatest biblical conflicts were between two groups of people: those who feared God and those who were scared of God. The latter group was scared that if there really was a resurrection then they would be held…

What John Lennon didn’t imagine

A new documentary about the Beatles reminds us how crazily their fans pursued them. This urge to chase them was almost instinctual, like how some dogs can’t resist chasing cars. The problem for both is, not knowing what to do…

Shackles Make the Monster

In time for Halloween, this Sunday’s gospel reading (Lk 18:9-14) gives us the story of a man-made monster—as told by Jesus. This is the tale of a creature driven mad by the shackles placed on him by his worldly life.…

Do we want the justice we deserve?

So, for the umpteenth time you drag yourself into your favorite prayer room seeking an answer about why God is withholding the relief you seek from life’s adversities. You pound your fist in frustration demanding “Why, Lord?” What if you…